Kubiak's Strategy for the Raiders' Future

Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak has expressed a clear preference regarding the team's quarterback situation. With the Raiders expected to use the No. 1 overall pick in next month's NFL draft on Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, Kubiak hopes to avoid starting the rookie immediately.

"Ideally, you don’t want him to start from day one," Kubiak said. "You’d love him to be able to learn behind somebody. It does help the player if they can sit behind a mature adult and watch how they run the show." While Kubiak acknowledged that circumstances sometimes force a rookie into action, he remains focused on the development of the Indiana national champion, whom he described as quick, intelligent, and a winner.

Current Roster and Veteran Options

Following the departures of Geno Smith and Kenny Pickett, Aidan O’Connell is currently the only quarterback on the Raiders' roster. As the franchise looks to rebuild and end a playoff drought dating back to the 2002 season, the team may look toward unsigned veterans like Kirk Cousins, Jimmy Garoppolo, or Russell Wilson to provide the mentorship Kubiak desires.

Maxx Crosby Remains in Las Vegas

The Raiders received a significant boost when a trade involving star edge rusher Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens was voided due to a failed physical. Kubiak expressed his relief and excitement regarding the development, noting that the team is better with the five-time Pro Bowl selection on the roster.

"We’re happy to have Maxx back on the team. He’s the best player on our defense," Kubiak stated. Crosby has already returned to the team facility to continue rehabilitating his knee.

League-Wide Quarterback Developments

The NFL landscape continues to shift as other teams navigate their own quarterback challenges:

  • New York Jets: Coach Aaron Glenn has high expectations for Geno Smith, despite his struggles last season, believing the veteran can lead the team to success.
  • Cleveland Browns: Owner Jimmy Haslam and coach Todd Monken are evaluating Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, and Dillon Gabriel. The team is cautiously optimistic about Watson's potential return to form following significant injury setbacks.
  • Denver Broncos: Coach Sean Payton shared his skepticism regarding the inclusion of NFL players on the Team USA men’s flag football roster, stating he would be surprised to see any professionals on the team.